Matt Varga Updated September 18th, 2026: Now tabbed for a release on October 23rd, the Nike Air Force 1 ’01 “Rat Pack” has dropped off official images, staying true to its furry heels, menacing eye graphics, and black/brown/pink colorway overall.
Original article published August 28th, 2026:
Largely due to the New York Knicks making history this June, Nike took full advantage of the increased attention on the Big Apple, rolling out multiple Air Force 1 colorways for those who bleed blue and orange in addition to their newly-minted SoHo location. Through additional summer fun like activations with Jae Tips, it’s become clear that the Nike-NYC connection will remain a focus for months to come, and the Nike Air Force 1 “Black Rat” featured here is further proof.
You’ll need to jump back to our coverage in July for the original Air Force 1 “Subway Rat,” a pair that bore MetroCard hangtags, the ’01 build, and a furry arrangement that **pretty faithfully** adapted the Tri-State vermin. About a month after that shoe came to light, the one featured here is cut from the same cloth in our estimation, bearing furry Swooshes, vamps, and collar tabs, yet sharing the Nike NYC branding and pale pink traction below. Tumbled leather and a menacing eye poking out at the rear only **emphasize** that **villainous** atmosphere.
The Nike Air Force 1 “Black Rat” should be coming to shelves soon, likely with a slight premium on the silhouette’s standard $125 sticker price.
